Prepping Your Water Heater for Winter

Winterizing your water heater is one of the most important things a Springfield, Virginia, resident can do this season. Not sure where to start? Here are a few helpful tips.

Keep the Water Running

If you frequently experience frozen pipes, it is a good idea to keep the water running when you expect freezing temperatures. This will have minimal impact on your water bill, and it is certainly cheaper than dealing with busted pipes.

Whenever you expect an overnight freeze, turn your home’s faucets on, but only so that there is a slight but steady trickle of water. This strategy should be enough to keep the pipes from freezing.

Insulate the Pipes

For a more cost-effective solution, insulate the exterior pipes before winter sets in. Most tankless water heaters are freeze-resistant, but even their plumbing lines are prone to freezing. Whatever type of water heater you own, protect its external pipes with insulation. You can purchase dedicated pipe covers or use heat tape or heat cable, and aluminum foil.

Keep the Tank Warm

When installing a new water heater, you want to put it in a safe place where there is plenty of heat, rather than just putting it in a cold corner of the basement. If your unit isn’t in the best spot, simply keep it warm by wrapping it in insulation. You can buy water heater insulation covers or make one. These methods will increase heating efficiency so that you save energy as well as money.

Lower the Temperature

It may seem counterintuitive, but turning down your water heater’s temperature during the winter is a smart move. Lowering the temperature to around 120 degrees will save you a noticeable amount on your energy bill. There is no need to keep the temperature any higher than 120° F. Higher temperatures often result in scalding and will also increase your electricity bill.

Call Brennan’s Heating & Air Conditioning at 703-783-0145 for more winterizing solutions. From annual HVAC maintenance to energy-efficient heating solutions, we’ve got you covered.

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